BYD Electric Cars: UK Dealer Network to Nearly Double by End of 2025

BYD Speeds Up UK Expansion with Dealer Network Boom

 

BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant, is speeding up its UK push with a major expansion of its dealership network. From a standing start just over a year ago, the brand is already making waves in the UK with its affordable electric cars and bold retail partnerships. BYD is set to more than double its dealer footprint in the next few months, and it clearly means business.

 

From 67 to 120 dealerships by the end of 2025, BYD is not slowing down, with demand for electric vehicles evolving fast and consumer interest in more affordable EVs growing.

 

This post looks at the latest on BYD's UK dealer strategy, what it means for you and why you can't ignore the brand.

 

 

A Brand on the Move: 67 to 120 Dealerships

 

BYD, which means "Build Your Dreams", is no stranger to big targets. Already a top EV brand in China and a global player in electric mobility, the manufacturer is now targeting the UK.

 

In 2024, BYD ended the year with 67 dealerships in the UK. Not bad for a new player in the market. But 2025 is going to be the year they really take off. BYD has announced plans to grow its UK dealer network to at least 120 sites by the end of the year, making its range of EVs more widely available.

 

This signifies the brand's confidence in its UK momentum and broader plan to make affordable EVs available to more drivers nationwide.  

 

Key Partnerships Driving Growth

 

A big part of BYD's growth strategy is its partnerships with established UK dealer groups. Most recently, Arnold Clark, one of the UK's biggest car retailers, has agreed to open two new BYD sites, one in England and one in Scotland. These add to the sites already operated by the group and show a growing commitment to the brand.

 

BYD has also signed a new franchise deal with Greenhous Group, which will open a dealership in Telford. This is the company's first presence in Shropshire and a big step towards making its cars available in more UK regions.

 

Other big names already on board include Lookers, Pendragon, LSH Auto and Vertu Motors. These household names in the motor retail industry are helping BYD roll out fast, giving them access to established sales infrastructure and experienced sales teams.

 

Q1 2025 Sales Record

 

BYD's decision to expand in the UK market isn't speculation. The numbers back it up. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, BYD sold more cars than in 2024.

 

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), BYD registered 9,271 cars in Q1 this year. That's more than the brand sold in 2024 and a sign of growing customer interest.

 

Market share is rising, too. BYD now has around 1.6% of the UK car market, up from 0.45% a year ago. That's a big jump in a short space of time in a competitive segment dominated by long-established European, Japanese and Korean brands.

 

Why UK Drivers Are Taking Notice

 

So, what is it about BYD that's catching the attention of UK motorists? For many, it's the combination of value, technology and accessibility.

 

The current BYD UK range includes:

• BYD Atto 3 – A compact electric SUV with generous standard spec, impressive warranty and smooth electric driving.
• BYD Dolphin – An innovative and efficient hatchback for urban drivers and daily commutes.
• BYD Seal – A stylish saloon with strong performance credentials and a premium interior.
• BYD Sealion 7 – A larger SUV for families looking for a practical but efficient EV option.

 

In 2025, BYD will launch the Dolphin Surf, which is expected to be priced below £20,000. This could be one of the most affordable electric cars on the UK market and directly rival Renault's new electric 5 and other compact EVs aimed at budget-conscious drivers. In a market where the average new EV still commands a premium price, BYD's approach of bringing well-equipped, reliable electric cars to a more affordable price point is hitting the right note.

 

UK Investment Beyond Dealerships

 

BYD's commitment to the UK goes beyond retail partnerships and vehicle sales. The company has confirmed plans to open a research and development base in the UK. This will help BYD adapt its vehicles for UK roads and regulatory requirements.

 

This will allow BYD to fine-tune its vehicles for British drivers and reinforce the brand's long-term commitment to the market. Having local R&D capabilities will help speed up new model approvals, improve customer support, and facilitate product innovation tailored to regional needs.

 

A Wider Shift in UK EV Retail

 

BYD's expansion plans only enhance competition in the UK's EV market. As more manufacturers compete for a share of the electric space, dealership models are changing. Consumers expect a digital-first approach, test drive flexibility and transparent pricing.

 

BYD, with its clean and modern branding, is entering this space with an opportunity to rethink how electric vehicles are marketed and sold. Working with well-known dealer groups, familiar with the UK car market, will be important.

 

 

 

More choice for UK Car Buyers

 

For UK motorists, the expansion of BYD's dealer network can only be good news. More dealerships mean easier access to test drives, servicing, and support. It also puts pressure on competitors to reassess their pricing and value proposition, especially as BYD models undercut many existing EVs on the market.

 

As more sites open in towns and cities across the UK, drivers who may never have heard of BYD a year ago are now seeing its range up close. And with more models on the way, that choice will only get bigger.

 

Conclusion

 

BYD is not just dipping its toes in the UK. It's going for it. With an ambitious target to nearly double its dealership count in under a year, backed by surging sales and strong partnerships, the brand is positioning itself to become a household name in the UK's electric vehicle market. Good for consumers.

 

More competition, more affordability and electric vehicles can only help speed up the UK's transition to cleaner transport. If BYD keeps up the pace and wins over customers and dealers, it won't be long before BYD becomes a household name.

 

Sources:

BYD UK : BYD UK

Car Dealer - BYD grows UK dealer network

Motordealer.com - BYD aims to expand UK dealer network from 67 to 120 in 2025